Transcom Concepcion helps the victims of the floods in Chile

In March, unusually strong thunderstorms brought heavy rainfall to northern Chile's Atacama desert, flooding one of the driest regions in the world. Flash floods swept down valleys, cut off villages, destroyed structures, and carried vehicles for miles. The floods in Chile and Peru was caused by an unusual cold front which moved across the Andes, bringing heavy rainfall to the region.

The National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI) reported more that more than 29 000 people are affected, and preliminary figures show that more than 28 000 houses as been impacted , 10 000 of those has been completely destroyed or has severe damages. The small coastal city of Chañaral was hardest hit by the floods and many residents are trying to cope with the loss of their homes and belongings. The rise of the river El Salado divided the village into two, devastating the area.

At Transcom Concepción we launched a campaign to help those who have been affected by this devastating situation. We have been collecting basics like drinking water, cleaning supplies and nonperishable food. Our aim was to help our countrymen, because we know about the reality that exists when there is a natural disaster of this kind.